clipped from: snowsports.org 
McLean, VA (May 8, 2008) -- The snow sports products market grew by $280 million to reach $2.97 billion for the 2007.08 season, up from approximately $2.69 billion in all channels last season. Equipment sales were relatively flat in specialty shops and chain stores but increased by more than $40 million in online sales. Apparel sales increased by more than $100 million with snowboard tops and parkas selling very well in all channels. Kurt Widen, KJUS USA COO says, “The US market is challenging especially in these difficult economic times. However, snowfall is a great equalizer in our market, and early snowfall in the 07/08 ski season helped jump start sales in our segment. This along with strong sell through and continued growth in awareness of our relatively young brand positioned us well for the 08/09 order season where we saw a 27% increase over last year.”